74 Excellence in Pre Schools
I n a move that reshapes the early childhood education landscape across the GCC, Taaleem has signed an agreement to acquire a 95% stake in Kids First Group (KFG), one of the region’s largest and most respected nursery operators. The deal adds 34 premium nurseries to Taaleem’s already growing portfolio and marks a strategic step toward offering families a full educational journey, starting from the earliest years of a child’s life. KFG currently educates more than 5,000 students through a network of highly regarded brands including Redwood Montessori Nursery, Odyssey Nursery, Willow Children’s Nursery, Ladybird, and Children’s Oasis. The nurseries operate in prime locations across Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Doha, offering four distinct curricula to meet the needs of diverse communities. For Taaleem, the acquisition is more than just a numbers game. It reflects a shift in how the group sees long-term value, investing not just in academic outcomes, but in the formative years where character, confidence and curiosity begin to take root. THE FOUNDATION YEARS “This acquisition of Kids First Group represents an important next chapter in Taaleem's growth strategy,” said Khalid Al Tayer, Chairman of the Board of Taaleem. “By expanding further into the early- learning segment, we are creating a comprehensive educational pathway that supports children from their earliest stages of development through to K–12 education.” Describing KFG as a “plug-and- play” platform, the acquisition gives Taaleem an immediate foothold in the early years sector, one that is not only academically aligned with its vision but already profitable and well-established. Each nursery offers a premium, parent- trusted experience, situated either close to business districts or within family- friendly residential communities. Importantly, the KFG brand will retain its identity. Following the acquisition, it will operate as a standalone vertical within Taaleem’s portfolio. Founder Kamil Najjar will remain at the helm as Chief Executive Officer, retaining a 5% shareholding and working closely with Taaleem’s board to guide the next phase of growth.
34 nurseries. 3 cities. 5,000 students and one strategic step forward.
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